Watson steps into Hive director role

The Salford-based planner has appointed David Watson to establish and lead its socio-economics team.

Watson will join Hive Land and Planning’s 11-person team and will be based out of its North Star Drive office in Salford.

He will work with both the private and public sectors and advise on the social and economic impact of regeneration on people and places.

Watson joins Hive from Hatch, where he held the role of associate director for more than five years. Before Hatch, he spent more than 15 years at Regeneris Consulting.

Mark Vaughan, director at Hive Land and Planning, said: “David’s appointment strengthens our service offer across planning, development, and socio-economics, giving our clients one go-to team from vision to delivery.

“His unique experience working with a range of public sector bodies, as well as with the private sector, will help our clients shape brighter futures for places, putting economic and social impact at the heart of regeneration and placemaking.”

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David Watson, director at Hive, said: “Genuine and lasting urban regeneration is a long game, but it’s one I’m passionate about.

“Hive’s commitment to making meaningful differences to places through working in partnership with public bodies and developers aligns brilliantly with my values.

“I can’t wait to get stuck into problem-solving and offering strategic advice that ultimately benefits local people, communities, and economies.”